A vibrant hub located off the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas welcomes travelers with powdery beaches, jungle-layered cliffs and azure waters filled with yachts.

On a cruise to St. Thomas, you’ll likely arrive at Charlotte Amalie first. Immerse yourself in swanky shopping and authentic restaurants before visiting a few historic attractions. Fort Christian is an imposing structure that hides a fascinating past – it’s also the oldest building in the Virgins Islands. Next, trek up the 99 Steps (built by the Danes in the 1700s) to explore a lush residential area above the town.

For an even more tranquil escape, take a water taxi to the island of St. John. Sugar-white ribbons of sand and forests filled with cacti and gnarled trees await you on this pristine parcel of land. Two-thirds of the island is protected as a national park, which helps maintain a soothing ambience.

The best way to truly appreciate the unspoiled beauty of this island is to see the stunning scenery for yourself. This video is designed to give you a few more ideas about St. Thomas shore excursions.